Quick and Easy Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Greetings, my fellow food enthusiasts! I am excited to share with you today a recipe that will surely tickle your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. If you’re looking for something hearty and filling, yet dairy-free and gluten-free at the same time, then you’ve come to the right place.

What I have for you today is a spin on your classic carbonara pasta dish – but with a twist! This recipe is free from heavy cream and parmesan cheese, which makes it perfect for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to switch things up a bit in their pasta dishes.

But just because this recipe is dairy-free doesn’t mean it’s flavor-free. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! The ingredients used in this recipe are carefully chosen to create a creamy pasta that’s packed with flavor. From sun-dried tomatoes to garlic, red onion to white wine, and of course, crispy bacon – all of these elements come together to make this dish a true standout.

And what I love about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make. You can have dinner on the table within 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Plus, there are many substitutions and variations you can experiment with to make this recipe your own.

So whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just wanting to try something new and delicious, give this dairy-free spaghetti carbonara recipe a go. I promise it will not disappoint! So grab your apron and let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara - Dairy Free
Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara – Dairy Free

Friends, let me tell you why you are going to love this recipe – it’s a creamy, savory, and delicious pasta dish that doesn’t include any dairy products! Yes, you read that right, no cream or cheese. This “Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara” is perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or on a dairy-free diet, without sacrificing flavor.

Imagine a creamy pasta dish that actually sits well with your stomach. That’s what this recipe has to offer. Instead of cheese, we will be using a combination of silken tofu and sun-dried tomatoes to create a creamy texture that’s out of this world. Trust me; you won’t feel like you’re missing out on the traditional carbonara flavors.

But wait! Gluten-free eaters can also rejoice because this recipe is made with angel hair pasta and doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients. And let’s not forget about the eggs- free version- we came up with a surefire way to make the sauce flavorful without them. Garlic cloves, onion, and white wine are going to do the trick!

So if you want to enjoy carbonara pasta—without heavy cream or cheese—look no further. Not only is this recipe healthy and tasty, but it’s also easy enough for anyone to make in 30 minutes or less.

It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to try something different than traditional spaghetti dishes. So why don’t you try our take on carbonara? The creamy sauce is flavorful and guilt-free – I guarantee you’ll love it!

Ingredient List

 Delicious dairy-free spaghetti recipe that you'll want to eat again and again
Delicious dairy-free spaghetti recipe that you’ll want to eat again and again

Before we get started with the recipe, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make this dairy-free spaghetti (not quite) carbonara. The ingredients needed for this dish are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

  • Angel Hair Pasta (gluten-free) – 1 pound
  • Bacon or Pancetta – 6 slices of smoked bacon or pancetta (chopped into pieces)
  • Red Onion (diced) – 1 medium-sized onion
  • Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
  • Sun-dried Tomato – 1/2 cup
  • White Wine – 1/4 cup

Sauce Ingredients:

  • Egg Yolk – 2 large egg yolks
  • Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
  • Silken Tofu – 1/2 cup
  • Coconut Milk – 1/2 cup
  • Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (dairy-free) – 2/3 cup
  • Lemon Juice – 1 tbsp
  • Salt and Black Pepper

With these ingredients, you can make a delicious and flavorful spaghetti carbonara that is also gluten-free and dairy-free.

The Recipe How-To

 Perfectly cooked spaghetti with creamy sauce and lots of flavor
Perfectly cooked spaghetti with creamy sauce and lots of flavor

Now that we have talked about the ingredients, let’s dive into making this delicious spaghetti carbonara recipe. This recipe is easy to make and shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to prepare.

Step 1: Cook The Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add dried spaghetti and cook until it’s al dente (cooked but the pasta is still firm to bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare The Bacon

Cut 2 slices of bacon [keyword] or vegan bacon into thin strips and place them in a pan set over medium heat [keyword]. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, stirring occasionally. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the pan onto a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Onion

In the same pan used for the bacon, add finely diced red onion (â…“ cup) [keyword] and 3 garlic cloves, which have been chopped. Cook for about 2 minutes until the onion turns translucent.

Step 4: Whisk The Eggs

In a medium size bowl, whisk together 2 eggs [keyword] and 1 egg yolk (optional).

Step 5: Add Cheese Alternative

For those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, you can use 2-3 tablespoons of finely grated nutritional yeast [keyword] instead of parmesan cheese. If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand, don’t worry as this dish tastes great even without cheese.

Step 6: Add Liquid Mixture & Bacon

Add cooked spaghetti, olive oil (2 tbsp) [keyword], whisked eggs, sun-dried tomatoes (¼ cup) [keyword], smoked bacon or vegan bacon (if using), and if desired, white wine (½ cup) [keyword] to the pan with the garlic and onion. Mix all ingredients until they are well combined.

Step 7: Tofu & Coconut Milk Alternative

For those who want a vegan or dairy-free version of carbonara, you can use silken tofu (1/2 cup) [keyword], blended with coconut milk (1 cup) [keyword].

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

Remove the pan from the heat once the carbonara is cooked through. Give everything a good toss and divide it equally into serving bowls. You can add some cracked black pepper, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and parsley for garnish [keyword]. This dish pairs well with garlic bread or fresh greens like steamed zucchini or green salad [keyword].

Congratulations! You have just made a flavorful dairy-free spaghetti carbonara recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Make sure to save any leftovers and reheat them for another meal.

Substitutions and Variations

 Get ready for a carbonara recipe that doesn't include dairy but still tastes amazing
Get ready for a carbonara recipe that doesn’t include dairy but still tastes amazing

Now let’s talk about some substitutions and variations that you can make to this recipe. As mentioned earlier, this recipe is made without the use of traditional carbonara ingredients such as parmesan cheese, heavy cream, or bacon.

If you’re looking for a vegan or lactose-free alternative, I recommend using silken tofu instead of eggs to make the creamy sauce. You can also try using coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.

For a gluten-free option, swap out the angel hair pasta for a dried spaghetti made from rice or quinoa. Zucchini noodles are also a great substitute for those following a low-carb or paleo lifestyle.

If you’re not a fan of bacon or want to go for a vegetarian option, try using sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms instead. You can also switch up the type of bacon you use – smoked bacon or pancetta would work well in this recipe.

To kick things up a notch, you can add in some diced red pepper or jalapeño for some heat. Or if you’re a garlic lover like me, add an extra clove or two to really give the dish some flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless!

Serving and Pairing

 A hearty bowl of spaghetti that's perfect for a cozy night in
A hearty bowl of spaghetti that’s perfect for a cozy night in

Alright, so you’ve cooked up a batch of Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara and it smells just divine. But now the question is, what should you serve alongside this delicious pasta dish? Fear not my friend, for I have got you covered.

Since this spaghetti recipe is already loaded with flavor, you don’t want your sides to be too overpowering. Why not keep it simple? Grab a nice crusty bread and whip up a classic Italian salad drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. These light and fresh sides will complement the rich flavors of your carbonara wonderfully.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, why not add a touch of green to your meal? Zucchini sautéed in olive oil with garlic and some lemon zest would make for an excellent side that not only tastes great but also adds some nutrition to your dinner.

Now for the most important part – what drinks go best with this creamy pasta dish? A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would be an excellent choice. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime will make for a refreshing accompaniment to your free spaghetti carbonara.

There you have it folks, my recommendations for serving and pairing this classic Italian dish. Bon appétit!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 You won't even miss the dairy in this vegan take on the classic carbonara recipe
You won’t even miss the dairy in this vegan take on the classic carbonara recipe

As delicious as this spaghetti carbonara is, sometimes we just don’t have the time or energy to cook a fresh meal every day. Luckily, this dairy-free recipe can be stored and reheated easily without sacrificing any of its delicious flavors.

To make-ahead, simply prepare the dish as instructed and then transfer it to an airtight container. The spaghetti carbonara can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.

To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in a skillet over medium-low heat. If reheating from frozen, allow the spaghetti carbonara to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

While reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out. You can also sprinkle some additional finely grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra pop of flavor.

It’s important to keep in mind that while reheating is an option, it’s best enjoyed fresh. So if you have the time, we recommend making this recipe just before serving for optimal enjoyment.

Tips for Perfect Results

 The perfect recipe for when you want a comforting meal without the extra calories
The perfect recipe for when you want a comforting meal without the extra calories

Cooking a good spaghetti carbonara is not rocket science. However, there are tips and tricks to get the perfect result every time you cook this recipe. These tips will make a difference between an ordinary spaghetti carbonara and an exceptional one.

Here are some tips that would help you achieve the perfect carbonara:

1. Cook your pasta al dente. Angel hair pasta takes 4-5 minutes to cook, and overcooked pasta will affect the texture of your Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara.

2. Save some pasta water before draining it. The starchy water will help in forming a creamy and flavorful dairy-free sauce for your dish.

3. Use fresh organic eggs without cracks because the eggs’ quality determines if a carbonara is going to taste great or not. Fresh eggs will produce thick and creamy sauce once mixed with other ingredients.

4. Add any veggies you like such as zucchini or sun-dried tomato to create a different flavor profile, but don’t go too crazy with too many vegetables as it may impact the classic carbonara taste.

5. Always use smoked bacon to give your Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara a robust flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce perfectly.

6. Grate your parmesan cheese finely; this helps it melt more easily into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

7. Don’t let your free carbonara come to a boil after adding in egg yolk; otherwise, you might end up with scrambled eggs in your sauce!

8. Make sure that your pan is hot enough before adding garlic and onion; this prevents them from being soggy and unappetizing.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to cook an outstanding plate of spaghetti carbonara that everyone will love – even those who aren’t cheese lovers!

FAQ

Now that you’ve got the whole recipe down pat, I bet you have a few questions in mind about this Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara Dairy-Free Recipe. Before we wrap things up, let’s take a look at some of the frequently asked questions and learn more about this delicious recipe together. So without further ado, let’s dive right in, shall we?

What can I use instead of heavy cream in carbonara?

Let’s make a super easy heavy cream substitute that works wonders in pasta dishes! Grab a cup of cold whole milk and mix in 2 tablespoons of flour along with 2-3 tablespoons of cooled, melted butter. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth consistency. When heated, this mixture thickens up just like heavy cream. It’s a fantastic replacement that never fails!

What can I use instead of cheese in carbonara?

When it comes to making carbonara at home, it’s important to have the right ingredients. For the cheese, it’s best to use finely grated parmigiano-reggiano or pecorino-romano. However, if these options are not available, parmesan will do just fine. As for the bacon, traditional carbonara calls for guanciale or pancetta, but for home cooking, regular bacon can be used as a convenient substitute.

Does carbonara contain dairy?

The creamy texture of Carbonara sauce should come from tempered eggs only, without the need for cream or butter. While parmesan or pecorino cheese is typically included in the sauce, this particular recipe does not call for it.

Why don t Italians use cream in carbonara?

Italian pasta recipes typically do not use cream as it can be too strong in flavor. For instance, when making Pasta al Burro, the warm pasta is mixed with chopped butter and grated parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy sauce without the need of cream.

Bottom Line

Folks, before I wrap up this article, let me tell you that this Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara – Dairy Free Recipe is a one-of-a-kind recipe that you would not want to miss. It’s a recipe made with eggs without cheese and a creamy sauce that’s so flavorful, and it’s completely dairy-free!

With easy-to-find ingredients like olive oil, garlic cloves, red onion, white wine, eggs, bacon, sun-dried tomato, and angel hair pasta, you can make this dish in just 30 minutes. And, if you are gluten intolerant or following a gluten-free diet, this gluten-free recipe is perfect for you too!

For those of you who love creamy pasta dishes but are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, this Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara Dairy-Free Recipe is the answer to your prayers. By using silken tofu instead of heavy cream or parmesan cheese, this carbonara pasta recipe becomes creamy and dairy-free at the same time.

Lastly, I want to say that this Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara – Dairy-Free Recipe is not only perfect for your family dinners but also great for large gatherings and potlucks. Besides pairing nicely with a glass of refreshing white wine, it goes well with baked chicken recipes and grilling recipes as well.

So what are you waiting for? Try out this Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara – Dairy Free Recipe and elevate your next pasta night to new culinary heights! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for it!

Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara - Dairy Free

Spaghetti (Not Quite) Carbonara - Dairy Free Recipe

I came up with this dish when craving carbonara but not wanting to use cream and also keeping fat low. Also, my daughter is allergic to milk so I try to keep her in mind when cooking. I trimmed some of the fat off of the bacon to keep it lean. This was enough for my hubby, me, and 2 year old (with a bit left). Cook time for pasta is included in the prep time.
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Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Calories 435.8 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 slices bacon
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon white wine
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato
  • salt and pepper
  • 6 ounces angel hair pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Begin boiling water for pasta.
  • Soak sun dried tomatoes to soften in warm water. When softened, dice into pieces.
  • Dice onion and garlic and cut bacon into small pieces.
  • Heat oil in pan and add onion, garlic, and bacon. When slightly cooked, add diced sun dried tomatoes. and continue to cook until bacon is slightly crisp. Remove from heat.
  • Whisk eggs with white wine and add salt and pepper to taste.
  • When pasta is done, drain and immediately add to bacon mixture and add eggs. Stir quickly to allow for even cooking of eggs from the heat of the pasta.
  • Serve with parmesan on top if you wish.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 107gCalories: 435.8kcalCarbohydrates: 47.5gProtein: 14.4gFat: 20.4gSaturated Fat: 4.9gCholesterol: 134.9mgSodium: 279.6mgFiber: 2.6gSugar: 4g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Dairy Free, Easy, Free Of..., Inexpensive, Lactose-free, Spaghetti
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